Much of the carving I do is with just a few tools. 1/4 and 1/2 bench chisels, 1/4 and 1/2 outcanel gouge(i’ll have to check on the number) 90 degree 1/4 and 3/4 parting tool. Now for lettering I use my plane blades to cut in the straights and then use the parting tools to begin the serifs and then clean them up with the bench chisels. Depending on the type of font you lean towards you can achieve a really neat brush look with the small gouge and you will be amazed at how quickly it goes, I use this technique for the asian symbols and lettering. I have a couple small signs that I have to complete next week, I will try and put together a quick blog for the tools and the simple techniques I use for the lettering, flowers and shells…Carving really is wonderfully relaxing work, almost as if a simple mallet gives our work cadence.

I am by far no expert but I have been gifted with many really cool carving tools (birthdays and Christmas mostly) but I find that I usually only use a few. The v chisels seems to come in very handy. I would suggest not getting to many to start. I wish I knew the number and sizes but like I said I am a novice.

I started with a pocket knife, get the flexcut knife.. and a thumb protector. The Kevlar glove has saved me from a few nasty slips also but I find that I have a lot more control with out the glove. I am also a lot more careful with out the glove. but the thumb guard seems to be a real skin saver :)

Chris,I have been carving only about a year but I find it very relaxing.I picked up some tools from “Wood Carvers Supply.com” or “Hummel.com” I purchased the 11 piece set of the flex cut tools and made a few of my own as well. You can see them in my pics.The flex cut tools have been a great time saver and stay very sharp, as Gary said your main challenge will be to keep them sharp.A nice leather strop with a bit of green or yellow compound will keep them sharp fpr you. If you have anymore ?’s feel free to contact me I will help as much as I possibly can.Good luck with your carving.